Fewer Troops in Germany
Jacob Sullum:
“For Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld,” The New York Times [RSS] explains, “the reasons for the reshuffling seem clear and compelling: that the purpose of military units is to fight and win the nation’s wars, and they should be stationed in locations that enable the United States to use them most efficiently and with minimal political restrictions.” But critics worry that the plan could “inadvertently lend support to the French contention that Europe must rely on itself for its security.” Just to be clear: That’s the downside.
Heh. I think I could live with that, too.
Update: Steven Taylor has more expansive thoughts on the issue.
The only real reason why there are still American combat troops here in Germany is that a lot of Europeans would have been very nervous if left alone with a recently re-united Germany. They’ve seen by now that we have no aggressive intentions, so the troops are no longer needed.
Having had lived in the Peoples Republic of Deutchland for a couple of years in the mid 90’s (expatriate, not military), I can say without sarcasam that most Germans like, appreciate, and admire Americans (excluding the Fundis’ of course). But at the same time, think we are provincial, immature and brash. (translation; americans work too hard and don’t expect us to).
As far as the military is concerned, I think most, would just as soon like to see us go, even though the economy will take a hit in those regions we are. I say it is about time we use those resources in a more productive manner… maybe to Poland!